“The Original” Happy Smackah

As we count down the days to the 4th Annual Happy Smackah 5k Fun Run / Walk, in support of Jill Woo Ching – please enjoy this update on Dan Cribby, the original Happy Smackah – and then, while you are here – register for this year’s event!

Dan is living as he always has.  He has always enjoyed working around his property, teaching, coaching, hiking and watching the Red Sox.  That’s what he’s doing.  Not much has changed in his life since his illness and resulting amputation.

As he often says, having one arm is like “needing to find a different tool for a job.”

Dan Cribby tends to his trees at his home

He leaves a lot of tools all around the property to pick up and use, and he insists driving the tractor is actually easier now because he installed a spinner knob for steering.  Sometimes he asks his wife to button his sleeve, but that’s about it.

He’s continued his building projects and landscape projects, and he’s back to photography.  He’s also back to running and will once again run in this year’s Happy Smackah.

The first Happy Smackah fun run was created to support Dan and Karen when Dan was hospitalized.  Dan was released from the hospital a day before the event, and he and his wife made an appearance.

Coach Dan enjoys talking with some of the Westview track team at a recent event

Dan has a  difficult time describing the emotions that overwhelmed him at the experience.  Over the past few years, that same feeling comes over Dan, but added to the overwhelming gratitude and love, is the added emotion of being a part of giving back.  Being a part of an amazing community.

Both Dan and his wife are humbled and grateful for the support of the community, and they are especially grateful for all the help of the  Happy Smackah board and volunteers that allow them to continue to give back to the community.

There are so many people who help make the Smackah possible.  Dan and his wife Karen, are deeply grateful.